Port Blair, July 24: In an effort to improve Solid Waste Management in the city, Shri Keshav Chandra, IAS, Chief Secretary, A&N Administration inaugurated PBMC’s Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Brookshabad today in association with GIZ in the presence of Shri Sudeep Rai Sharma, Chairperson, PBMC, Shri Amit Kale, IAS, Secretary, PBMC and Shri Christian Kapfensteiner, Director of Sustainable Urban Development GIZ-India. Senior Officers from the A&N Administration, Councillors, PBMC officials and general public were also present.
During the event, the Chief Secretary was given a detailed demonstration of waste-to-wealth processing units installed in MRF such as the phatka machine, plastic shredder, aglo maker, gatta machine, waste coconut shredding plant, and glass shredder units. These facilities will enhance the segregation process and boost the circular economy for these islands, providing indirect employment opportunities for the youth of Port Blair in the future. All these facilities will help manage Municipal solid waste in a much efficient manner.
The Chief Secretary highlighted that the new Material Recovery Facility will greatly enhance the waste disposal process and overall cleanliness in the region. This initiative showcases PBMCs strong commitment to sustainable urban development, serving as a model for effective waste management that can be emulated elsewhere. Additionally, the Chief Secretary awarded Certificates to Sanitation Workers of PBMC for their exemplary efforts in maintaining cleanliness and presented ‘Swachhata Awards’ to several hoteliers for their efficient waste management and also handed over a bag of compost made by Self Help Group ‘Sthree Hosla’ to Agriculture Officer to use at various parks of the Council.
Shri Amit Kale, Secretary, PBMC while addressing, reiterated that the newly established MRF aims to enhance the disposal and management of dry waste, such as plastics, glass, coconut shells, tetra packs and PET bottles, ensuring efficient management of segregated waste. This initiative is a significant stride towards promoting sustainable waste management practices in the region, aligning with GOIs initiative of Safai Apnao Bimaari Bhagao #SABB under Swachh Bharat Mission. The Secretary, PBMC strongly encouraged residents to practice waste segregation at home, refrain from littering and utilize proper garbage disposal methods to create a cleaner, safer and more vibrant community.